5 Items I Stopped Buying To Save $500 Every Month!

Last year, I noticed my “small” impulse buys were actually a giant leak in my bank account. However, by embracing a low buy lifestyle and cutting out these specific items, I managed to save over $500 every single month.

In a world full of continuous hauls and must have TikTok products, the internet has finally pivoted. Enter into the world of aesthetics of using what you have, wearing it out and refusing to buy into the cycle of endless upgrades. Below is the list of every item I stopped buying in 2026 to reclaim my peace and my savings.

The “Aesthetic” Reusable Water Bottle

I committed using that one bottle I already owned. It has dents, stickers but still quenches my thirst. Within this target, I saved around $40-$60 every month.

A Reusable water bottle with dents. Image by **freepik.**

Single Use Coffee Pods and Daily Cafe Runs

I decided to move back to a simple french press and bulk-bought beans . Interestingly, it tastes better and I no longer have to throw plastic pods into the trash every morning. By doing so, I saved $120-$150 every month.

A French Press Coffee Machine. Image by ***Freepik.***

“Just-In Case” Grocery Items

I have stopped buying bulk groceries that “might” be useful in the future. I buy only those items which are extremely necessary and need of the hour. If that item does not have any usage in my meal plan for the next week, it doesn't say hello to my cart. These items often include snacks, which I never actually eat. I saved $135 monthly.

Buying only the necessary grocery items. Image by ***freepik.***

Duplicate Skincare & Viral Makeup

I have stopped buying backup foundations and new launches of fashion items before finishing with what I already have. I follow a “one-in, one-out” policy for all toiletries. By doing this, I saved around $80 every month.

New-launch of makeup products makes users anxious to buy them. Image by ***freepik.***

Subscription “Leaks”

I reviewed my 2026 expenditure and strangely found that I have taken the subscription of three different streaming platforms I hadn't opened in months, also a “pro” version of a photo editing app which I rarely use. Now, I only have a subscription on one streaming platform. If I want to watch something else, I will cancel the current subscription and then move on to the next one. By doing this, I am now saving $45 monthly.

Starting Your Own Underconsumption Journey

If you are planning to try this plan, you don't have to throw everything away to look minimalist. By doing this, it defeats the purpose! What you can do, instead:

• Shop “Need of the Hour” Items: If you search the cabinets of your room, you will find that you probably have enough stock of shampoos and pastas that will last for the next two months.

• Unsubscribe: Cancel the subscription of the emails that tempt you with “24-hour flash sales.”